Ciao -
Blueberries are a classic fruit; jam packed (no pun intended) with a huge punch of healing benefits and powerful components. Everyone loves blueberries, right?
In today’s world, food is becoming less and less nutrient dense from a combination of factors such as water contamination, mineral depletion in the soil, pesticide use, and genetic modifications (GMO’s). The data in numerous studies have shown that the nutrient content in fruits and vegetables have decreased anywhere from 5%-40% in comparison to the days of our parents and especially our grandparents. I know, not very encouraging.
Don’t worry though - because organic fruits and vegetables hold much more nutrients than our GMO friends, (and much less pesticides - always a plus), and there are fruits and vegetables still holding onto those extra precious minerals and nutrients that can be utilized to optimize health and thriving.
So welcome to wild blueberries!
Wild blueberries are half the size but loaded with vitamins, minerals, and photochemicals that rack higher than regular blueberries. Examples include 72% more fiber, higher antioxidant levels, double the manganese, more vitamin C, B6, and K, including higher amounts of folate, zinc, and potassium. The repertoire of these benefits allows these berries to protect and defend DNA from free radical damage, fighting cancerous cells and other illnesses. If you aren’t sold yet, wild blueberries also contain an estimated 33% more of a powerful brain healthy, anti-aging, and anti-inflammatory flavonoid antioxidant called anthocyanin, responsible for the classic blue color.
One of the most incredible parts of wild blueberries, in my opinion, is the way in which wild blueberries must fight to survive. Even organic and non-GMO blueberries always have life on their side with the help of FDA approved chemicals (not that that means anything), special water and light conditions, and fertilized soil. Wild blueberries belong to a special certification group in Maine that protects the ‘wild’ part of these berries. These berries fight, adapt, and grow to survive. Everything we eat carries an energy, and wild blueberries carry an energy of life and survival. I think we can all use some more of that.
Now, don’t get me wrong - no part of this newsletter is saying to not eat regular blueberries; keep eating a pint of them in one sitting as I do, often. It is simply enlightening the world of wild blueberries! These can be found most often in the frozen section of many health food stores, including a large section of them at most Trader Joes’ stores. They are great for placing on top of foods such as oatmeal or zoats or blending into a smoothie.
Food is powerful, and food is medicine. Wild blueberries are a wonderful asset to our health and wellness. It is up to no one but us to do what we can to empower and fuel ourselves with food that protects, heals, and thrives.
Food for thought,
Lai